By Joshua Burgamy, RAK Drone Solutions
The view from above can change everything. In West Jordan, we see constant growth and change—new developments, local events, and businesses expanding their reach. As a drone pilot and the owner of RAK Drone Solutions, I’ve had the unique privilege of capturing that story from the sky. It’s a perspective that’s easy to take for granted until you see it for yourself: your neighborhood, your storefront, your project, all laid out in a way that tells a story no ground-level photo ever could.
Drone technology isn’t just for hobbyists anymore. It’s a practical, powerful tool for local businesses and the community—whether it’s marketing footage for a new commercial property, documentation of a community event, or a bird’s-eye view of a project in progress. But with any new technology comes questions, and one of the most common ones I hear is simple: who is allowed to fly these things, and under what rules?
The answer matters more than most people realize.
A Professional Isn’t Just Someone with a Drone
I hold an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate, which allows me to fly drones—technically known as Unmanned Aircraft Systems, or UAS—for compensation. That means I have studied and passed a test on the laws, regulations, and safe flight rules the FAA has established for drone operations, known as FAA Part 107.
Just as we have laws for driving, we have laws for flying. The FAA sets the rules for anything in the air, or more specifically, the airspace within the United States. And here’s something worth knowing: even the air directly above your home, land, or business is managed by the FAA. The FAA classifies drones as aircraft, so they’re protected under the same federal rules as any other aircraft.
That means damaging or destroying a drone in flight, including shooting one down, can be a federal crime, even if it’s flying over your home or business. And yes, a drone can legally fly over your property when the pilot follows FAA rules, though state and local privacy and trespass laws still apply.
Two Paths, One Set of Rules
There are two specific sets of rules for drone pilots in the United States. Recreational pilots—those flying for fun or as a hobby—must take and pass the free Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and carry proof of completion whenever they fly. Commercial pilots, on the other hand, must be 16 or older and pass the FAA Part 107 aeronautical knowledge test to become certified.
There may be other state or municipal rules that dictate takeoff and landing areas, but any and all airspace rules—where and when you can fly—come from the FAA.
What This Means for West Jordan Businesses
Understanding these distinctions isn’t just trivia. When you hire a drone operator, you’re trusting them with your property, your project, and your reputation. Working with an FAA-certified professional means your project stays compliant, your footage is captured safely and legally, and you’re not left holding the bag if something goes wrong.
The West Jordan Chamber has been an incredible resource for connecting with other local professionals and learning from their experiences. I believe that by sharing our own knowledge, we can all grow stronger together.
If you’re curious about how aerial imagery could benefit your business or project—or simply have questions about drone rules—I’m always happy to share a new perspective.
For a deeper dive into drone flight rules, regulations, and operations, visit the FAA DroneZone.
About the Author
Joshua Burgamy is the owner of RAK Drone Solutions. Father, husband, and small business owner, he is an FAA Part 107 certified and fully insured drone pilot. Happy flying! Reach Josh at josh@rakdrones.com or 385-418-3029, or visit rakdrones.com.
